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8 Keys to Choosing the Right Devices for Your Mobile OS Migration

If you’re migrating to a new mobile operating system from Windows Embedded Handheld or any other legacy
system, one of the keys to success is choosing the right hardware.

To help you choose the right devices, here are eight key factors to keep in mind:

1. Your Environment

Will your devices be durable enough to deal with common accidents, such as drops or spills? Does your
working environment include the possibility of moist conditions, extreme or variable temperatures,
or the need to use gloves?

Make sure your new devices are truly enterprise-grade and rugged enough to withstand real-world operating
conditions.

2. Data Capture

Do your devices need to allow for fast, accurate data entry, and will they be performing scan-intensive
jobs and capturing signatures or card details?

If so, then you’ll need to choose devices with advanced scanning capabilities, such as Zebra’s first-time,
every-time capture of 1D and 2D barcodes.

3. Power

Will your devices be in continuous use all day, or even over several shifts, without access to charging
stations?

Consider choosing devices with hot swappable batteries and longer battery life. In particular, this means
avoiding iOS devices, as their poor battery life often requires full device replacement every two
years.

4. Ease of Use

Will employees find your devices simple to use, are they familiar with the OS, and do they prefer touchscreen
or hard-key input?

Familiarity and ease of use are two of the primary reasons why many businesses are making the switch
to the Android OS. Many workers use Android on their home mobile devices, and its interface is often
more intuitive and easier to use than Windows.

5. Connectivity

Can your devices maintain robust WAN/WLAN connections and seamless roaming to provide data access for
employees on the move? Do they support Bluetooth? Will you need only voice, only data, or a combination
of both?

Built-in and flexible connectivity is one of the reasons why we recommend the combination of Android
OS and Zebra mobile computers, including Zebra’s MC3300, ET50/ET55, and TC8000.

6. Manageability

Will your devices lighten the management burden or add to it? Will you be able to centrally manage hardware,
security, software upgrades, and resolve issues?

Over-the-air security updates are one of the reasons we recommend the Android OS for enterprise mobile
computing. For example, if you’re running Zebra Android mobile computers and use Zebra’s enterprise
mobility management, you can have total control to manage and resolve issues with your devices and
apps remotely.

7. Support and Repair

How likely is it that your devices will fail? How quickly will you need replacements, and does your support
plan cover everything you need in a cost-effective way?

To start, consider choosing rugged Zebra enterprise devices to minimize repair and support issues. Also,
consider working with your technology provider to develop a customized support and service plan to
meet your anticipated needs.

8. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

How much will your devices really cost over their entire lifecycle—factoring in everything from worker
downtime and accelerated replacements to accessories and support?

Zebra Technologies’ research shows that consumer-grade devices have a 51 percent higher TCO than enterprise-grade
devices.

This is why it pays to stay away from iOS devices. Apple’s iOS may have a “cool” factor, but it also
has a huge cost factor. Its devices are primarily built for consumer use and are too brittle for
most enterprise demands.

What’s the Best Fit Your for Your Business?

We can help you choose the best options for your needs with a free consultation and customized recommendation
for your operations.